Ever since the conclusion of the 2023 World Cup, and the appointment of attacking coach Tony Brown, the Springboks have been intent on evolving their style of play – and the likes of playmaker Manie Libbok have certainly flourished in this system.
In many ways, Libbok has become a key weapon in the Springboks’ bomb squad, adding his incisive dynamism and distribution to proceedings when taking over from the equally impactful Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
Suddenly the Springboks have found themselves able to offer more threats all around the park, and Libbok understandably expressed how pleased he was with the evolution of the team in the last two years since the Rugby World Cup.
“Our main way of playing is still the same, but we’ve tweaked things here and there to expand our game and give the opposition different pictures, and it’s certainly helped us in the past two years.”
Manie Libbok and the Springboks ready for ‘rematch’ against France
Libbok started in the 2023 World Cup quarter-final against France, and said they knew what was lying in store this time around.
“Our past encounters against France have always been tough, and it shows what a quality team they are, and how hard it is to come here and face them, and this week will be no different.
“It was obviously good for us to get the result in the World Cup. The match was very intense and physical, and it took a lot out of us. At the end of the day, one point separated the teams on the scoreboard, but we are pleased that we got the result.”
Kick off time to note
The Test at the Stade de France kicks off at 22:10 (SA time) and will be broadcast live on the Grandstand and the SS Rugby channels during DStv Open Time.
Meanwhile, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will announce his matchday squad on Thursday.
